Buying a Boat Lift: Important Things to Consider

Maintain your  boat's pristine condition with a boat lift.

You have a beautiful home by a body of water with a breathtaking view and an attractive boat! However, nothing lasts forever, and no matter how sturdy your boat is, it will need some maintenance to keep it in shape and functional for many years to come.

Salt corrosion, hull blisters, algae accumulation, and more can happen depending on the water where your boat is floating. This can hasten maintenance or repairs, making you take more trips to maintain your boat more often than not.

What if you can reduce your boat maintenance by protecting it from the elements and staying in the water for too long?

If that strikes your fancy, getting a boat lift is right up your alley! Here’s what to keep in mind when buying a boat lift.

Types of Boat Lifts to Choose From

Bottom Standing- also called freestanding lifts. A bottom standing boat lift is for you if you have a dock in shallow waters, say around three to ten feet. This is also perfect if you're near a lake or your waters have soft sediment content.

Suspended- these boat lifts are suitable for docks with average water levels. 

Floating- if you have deep water levels or if the water level often changes with the tide, then a floating boat lift is what you need. Not only that, but this kind of boat lift also helps prevent your boat's weight from bearing down on the structure, which can damage it.

Preference: Manual or Electric

Manual

A manual boat lift can be easily found being sold in the markets. As the name suggests, you need manual labor and effort to be able to operate it. Therefore, getting your boat out of the water won't be effortless. However, it is affordable, and you can make it work even without electricity which is perfect for docks without a power source.

Electric

Unlike manual, you don't have to make any effort or labor to get your boat lift working. However, to enjoy effortless boat lifting, you have to ensure that there's a power source nearby. If not, and you have your heart set on an electric boat lift, you need to establish an electric source to use it.

Location and Weather and Water Conditions

Consider the location, weather, and water conditions of your area. If you mostly experience rough waters and more waves, consider upgrading your boat lift to make it sturdier. This way, you won't have to waste money if the standard boat lift can't withstand the waves or weather and gets damaged in the process.

Fresh or Salt Water

Knowing where to use your boat lift is also essential whenever you're planning to buy one. You can choose whether to use aluminum or galvanized lifts, each with pros and cons. If your water is fresh, the affordable galvanized lift is for you. An aluminum lift is the way to go if you want a sturdy and corrosion-resistant lift for your salt water. Though, it may be on the pricier side than the galvanized lift.

The following are just a few important things to consider when buying a boat lift. Keep your boat protected from the elements and lessen the amount of maintenance you must do. With these tips, we hope you can choose a boat lift that fits your location and needs.

If you are still wondering what else you need or have other factors to consider in your area, call us! Our team will answer all your questions and assist you in getting the perfect boat lift for you and your boat!